About URI Innovations
We bridge the gap between groundbreaking university research and real-world impact. Through technology transfer, startup support, and strategic partnerships, we help URI’s ideas move from the lab to the marketplace — where they can benefit society, drive economic growth, and create lasting change. Whether you’re an inventor, entrepreneur, or industry partner, you can engage with URI Innovations at any stage of the innovation process.
Our Mission
To accelerate the translation of University of Rhode Island research into innovations that:
Benefit communities and the environment
Drive economic development and job creation
Build sustainable ventures through technology transfer and entrepreneurship
Cultivate an inclusive, collaborative innovation ecosystem
Who we are
Innovation Excellence
We champion breakthrough research and transformative technologies that address today’s most pressing challenges.
Collaborative Impact
We connect university research with industry, investors, and partners to maximize societal and economic benefit.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
We foster entrepreneurship and support the creation of new companies and ventures that deliver real-world solutions.
Leadership Team
Christian Cowan
Executive Director
Pete Rumsey
Associate VP Economic Development, Innovation & Entrepreneurship- URI & Chief Business Development Officer - URI Innovations
Christine Smith
Director of Special Projects
Gina Lopardo
Program Administrator,
RISE-UP
Allison Markova
Director for Technology Transfer & Innovation Partnerships
Joe Loberti
Consultant, RISE-UP
Vanessa Alvarez
Consultant, RISE-UP
Sucess Stories
Read featured stories from our innovators and see how URI research is making an impact in the real world.
News
Funding & Showcase Opportunity: MIT Initiative for New Manufacturing Research Competition
Students and postdocs are invited to apply for the MIT Initiative for New Manufacturing Research Showcase, offering translational…
News
URI Innovations at NEMIC & Innovate Newport Industry Spotlight: HealthTech
Pete Rumsey will join a panel at the NEMIC and Innovate Newport Industry Spotlight: HealthTech, highlighting Rhode Island’s…
News
Cleantech Open 2026 Accelerator Now Accepting Applications (Free for RI Teams)
Applications are open for the 2026 Cleantech Open Northeast Accelerator, with program fees covered for Rhode Island–based teams…
Events
Join us for workshops, networking events, and innovation showcases throughout the year.
Events
URI Innovations Office Hours
Curious about innovation, entrepreneurship, or translating your research into real-world impact? Join URI Innovations Office Hours. URI Innovations,…
Events
URI Innovations Office Hours
Curious about innovation, entrepreneurship, or translating your research into real-world impact? Join URI Innovations Office Hours. URI Innovations,…
Partner with us
Whether you’re a researcher with a breakthrough discovery or an industry partner seeking innovation, we’re here to help you make an impact.
URI Innovations is the innovation and commercialization arm of the University of Rhode Island Research Foundation (URIRF). URIRF provides the organizational and fiduciary structure through which URI Innovations advances technology transfer, entrepreneurship, and strategic partnerships in support of the University of Rhode Island’s research mission.
Stay Connected
Get the latest updates on URI innovations, startup success stories, and upcoming events.